About Us

The inaugural Rails & Ales Festival took place in 2013 at Heritage Station, in downtown Huntington, and consisted of 750 ticketholders and a handful of beer vendors. Since then, the festival has grown a thousand percent, changed locations, added a second session and continues to expand each year to accommodate the increasing number of craft beer fans in our area.

The Rails & Ales Festival is organized by the Better Beer Coalition (BBC), whose goal is to promote a craft beer culture in the area and to improve access to craft beer by demonstrating the local demand to craft breweries and distributors. The BBC loves Huntington and appreciates the community support we’ve received over the years. We strive to throw a top-notch event that makes Huntingtonians proud and attracts out-of-town visitors to the beautiful Jewel City.

Will there be enough beer for two sessions?

We will have plenty of beer for both sessions!

What hotel do you recommend?

Both the Holiday Inn & Suites and the Pullman Plaza Hotel are within a short walking distance of the festival. Also, these hotels are within a five minute drive to downtown Huntington and the festival: Fairfield Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn, Towneplace Suites, Super 8 and Ramada Limited.

Can I bring my child?

The festival is for adults, 21 and older. Minors will not be permitted.

Where can I park?

Parking is not permitted in Harris Riverfront Park. Metered street parking is free on the weekends and parking is also available in the parking garages located at Pullman Square and 8th Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues. Better yet - Take a cab or Uber home!

Where can I get official Rails & Ales merchandise?

Check out our online store or visit the merch booth at the festival.

Can I bring my pet?

Animals are not allowed in the festival with the exception of ADA recognized service animals.

What happens if it rains?

The festival takes place rain or shine and there are no refunds. But don't worry, the beer gardens are tented! In case of rain, bring a poncho. NO umbrellas.

Where is the festival entrance?

Festival entry is at the 12th Street flood wall entrance of Harris River Front Park.

Will there be water available?

There are multiple rinse stations and free bottled water stations located in each tent. You can also stop by the Hydration Station to grab a free bottle of water. Bottled Water courtesy of Soccer by Sniatecki.

How do I know what beer is available for tasting and how can I find it?

Be sure to download the Rails & Ales smartphone app for a detailed map of the beer tents and premises. Or, you can grab a map at the front gate or Information Booth.

Can I leave and re-enter the festival?

No, once you leave the festival premises, you may not re-enter.

Can I bring a backpack to carry my purchases in?

Yes, just keep in mind it will be searched upon entry.

Can I bring my own refillable water bottle?

Yes, you may bring your water bottle but we will not have refill stations available. We will provide complimentary bottled water.

Can I buy a ticket for my designated driver?

While we encourage everyone to have a designated driver, we do not sell tickets specifically for designated drivers. All attendees must be 21 years of age and must have a ticket to enter.

What else is there to do besides taste beer?

If you need to take a break from beer tasting, you can keep yourself busy by enjoying musical entertainment, delicious food and browsing the artisan vendor booths.

Is there an ATM on site?

No, bring plenty of cash. Most of the food and artisan vendors will take plastic if you don’t have cash.

What if I need medical attention?

Please visit our Comfort Station if you need trained medical personnel or alert a volunteer or organizer that you need assistance. We will have an ambulance on premises as well.